Catherine Gibbs, TCI

Close to 30 graduates joined academic staff from The Catholic Institute’s Wellington and Palmerston North sites at Sacred Heart Cathedral, Thorndon, on 29 November last year for the 2016 graduation. A theme for the ceremony was ‘Blessed with eyes to see and ears to hear’ taken from Luke’s gospel of the day (Luke 10:21-24).

Cardinal John Dew spoke of the great opportunities for study offered by TCI. He reminded everyone of the deep mysteries and richness scriptures offer us, and how this gospel passage invites us to share in the inner life of God. ‘Growing into a deeper relationship with Jesus enables us to grow our faith and our life of service.’

Professor Anne Tuohy, TCI Director, said the richness of these ‘deep stories’ of scripture connect us to God. She encouraged everyone to continue to be part of ‘how the story of God is told, to family, friends and colleagues.’

Fiona Rammell, who graduated with a Diploma in Pastoral Leadership, gave the graduate reflection. She said each paper brought a new hunger for learning, how she felt blessed to be involved, and that her diploma marks the ‘beginning of something new’.

TCI awarded Diplomas in Pastoral Leadership and Religious Studies (Religious Education and Theological Studies streams), Certificates in Catechetical Studies, Catholic Youth Ministry, and Pastoral Ministry in Prisons. Two students completed a Master of Educational Leadership delivered in partnership with the Australian Catholic University.

Sounds of the karanga, putatara, a 13th century duo of viola and recorder, and the himene E te Atua manaaki mai – O God bless us enveloped everyone in the joyful event. Fr James Lyons’ recessional hymn, ‘Live this message, bring it to others, smile the joy our faith proclaims…’ brought to a close another year of successful study.

The Palmerston North Diocese graduates were:

• Sean Ryan with a Certificate in Prison Pastoral Ministry
• Rae Sullivan-Brown with a Diploma in Religious Studies
• Emma Dodsworth with a Certificate in Youth Ministry

The following graduates were unable to attend the ceremony:

• Rachel Ammundsen with a Diploma in Religious Studies
• Sheree Blake with a Certificate in Catechetical Studies
•  Kate Landrigan with a Certificate in Catechetical Studies
• Caitlyn Moratti with a Certificate in Catechetical Studies

Photos from The Catholic Institute of Aotearoa New Zealand